LOOKING FOR SOLUTIONS — Pastor Jeremy McClimans of Kings Creek Union Chapel, along with about a dozen members of the church, attended Thursday’s meeting of the Weirton Traffic Commission, expressing concerns with speeding and motorists running stop signs near the church. -- Craig Howell

WEIRTON — About a dozen members of one Weirton church approached the Weirton Traffic Commission Thursday with concerns about speeding and other alleged traffic violations but were told there was little the city could do.

Members of Kings Creek Union Chapel attended the commission’s meeting Thursday, expressing concern over what they said are motorists driving through stop signs at the intersection of Kings Creek Road and North 12th Street, as well as speeding in the area.

“Those stop signs are ignored by so many cars,” Pastor Jeremy McClimans said. “Our main concern is safety.”

Growth at the church has made the issue even more of a priority, with McClimans reporting membership has increased from eight to 95 in recent years, with the church considering adding a second Sunday service. This summer’s Vacation Bible School program included 50 children, he said.

Some church members have begun volunteering to serve as crossing guards, assisting those crossing Kings Creek Road from the parking lot to the church and back.

“We care about our church people,” McClimans said.

Traffic Commission Chair Romie Castelli and other city officials, though, noted there was little the city could do directly as Kings Creek Road is considered a state road and not under the purview of the City of Weirton.

“With it being a state road, the city has no jurisdiction,” City Clerk Kimberly Long said, noting she had been in communication with representatives of the West Virginia Division of Highways on the matter.

A proposal to have a pedestrian crossing area designated in the area wouldn’t be feasible, she said, as state regulations require an intersection with traffic lights.

Traffic Commissioner Fred Marsh did express concern about the church membership volunteering as crossing guards, saying it is his understanding they may have to go through training and be deputized under the law.

“We want to help you, but our hands are tied to a certain extent,” Marsh said.

McClimans offered the possibility of the church purchasing warning signs, with lights, which could be turned on and off during the times of services or other church activities.

“Whatever works is what we’ll try,” he said.

Others in attendance also noted the area serves as a bus stop.

Police Chief Charlie Kush offered to have an officer patrol the area, whenever possible to provide additional support and monitor traffic, saying he also could coordinate with the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department.

In other business, Thursday, commissioners recommended the installation of a 51-foot no parking area on Fairview Street near the Owings Street intersection, and agreed to the removal of a dedicated handicap parking space at 155 South 13th St.